Battlefield students are officially halfway through the year and it is time to start selecting classes for next year. A dilemma that each student faces is how to balance their schedule. Part of this is choosing how many advanced, AP, or Pre-AP classes one should take. There is a fine line between selecting a few challenging classes and being bogged down with them. While advanced classes can impress colleges, too many or too difficult classes can cause one to become overwhelmed and stressed.

Deana Miller, a math teacher at Battlefield says that one should, “either love math or. . . think they might have a career that requires a top math background [one day],” before enrolling in an advanced math class. “The pace is faster; students don’t always get to use a calculator, and the assessments are timed. . . advanced math classes also challenge students as independent thinkers and have them apply learned topics to real life situations.”

Jenny Lee, a Battlefield freshman and Pre-AP Geometry student says that in her class, “there is always an appropriate amount of homework and the teacher is always available for help.” Lee says the extra help prepares her for the timed tests, which she dislikes the most in the class.

Brandie Provenzano, an English teacher at Battlefield recommends choosing, “AP classes that relate to [one’s] interests and strengths, and balance those with electives and other [enjoyable classes].” If one is considering enrolling in an advanced english class, Mrs. Provenzano says that he or she should be able to read and work independently because there will be 30 minutes to 45 minutes of homework that is graded on content each night.

Kaylee Lee, a Battlefield freshman and Pre-AP English 9 student supports the class and says that the homework isn’t too hard. She highly recommends reading all book assignments closely, as the tests often cover themes that are not openly stated.

Maureen Romano, the school social worker, says that every kid is different. Before selecting classes weigh extracurriculars and goals for the future. Mrs. Romano says that unless one knows for sure, do not take more than a few advanced classes. Pre-AP and AP classes can be really challenging, only take them in enjoyable subjects.

Kendall Carnegie, a Battlefield freshman and member of the Battlefield JV cheerleading team, says that she only took one Pre-AP class because of her crazy schedule. With her thirty hours of practice a week for cheerleading, Carnegie does not have time for more than a few advanced classes.

While advanced classes look good on college applications, it is important not to get stretched thin trying to keep up with numerous classes. PrepScholar.com says that, “the number of AP classes [to] take is up to [future goals].” The most important thing to keep in mind when selecting classes is the balance of school and home. Try to take challenging class, but do not become overwhelmed.